3 Reasons Why You Need to Change Your Furnace Filters More Often

The cold weather is rapidly approaching, and many of us are gearing up to protect our homes from the bitter cold.

Furnaces will kick into high gear soon, and making sure your heating system is well-maintained is of the utmost importance.

One easy way to keep up with this maintenance is by changing your furnace filters regularly. Energy Star recommends checking furnace filters once a month, especially during winter and summer, and replacing them at least once every six months or each year.

Related: Sign up & get a new furnace filter mailed to you every 6-12 months

Wondering why it’s so important to replace those filters? Check out the top three reasons why you should change furnace filters regularly:

1. Clean systems last longer

Dirt accumulates in filters over time, especially during summer and winter months when your heating and cooling systems are in peak use. Dirty build-up causes clogs in filters, and when air can’t pass through easily, the system must work harder, causing overheating. Overheating can cause serious damage, and may even result in needing to replace the furnace. Clogged filters can cause dirt to build up in other areas of the system as well, causing pollution and extra repairs that wouldn’t normally be necessary.

2. Reduce energy costs

Remember how we mentioned a clogged filter can cause your system to work harder? That means an increase in your energy usage. According to the Department of Energy, heating and cooling account for almost half of the average home’s utility bills! Replacing your air filter regularly means that fan motor doesn’t have to work as hard, and you won’t be blowing tons of money on unnecessary energy costs.

3. Healthy air

Poor indoor air quality can cause symptoms such as eye irritation, sneezing, dizziness, and respiratory problems. People suffering from asthma and allergies are significantly affected by poor indoor air quality. Homes with pets experience extra dirt and dander in the air. Changing the air filter in your furnace regularly will prevent dust, dirt, mold spores, soot, bacteria, and allergens from building up in the air inside your home.

The life of your furnace and the health and safety of your family depend on regular heating system maintenance. Changing your furnace filter is a very simple way to keep your indoor air clean and avoid costly repairs to your heating system.